Microbes sequencing in ileum of laying ducks

As is known to all, photoperiod is the most important environmental factor regulating the circadian rhythm of birds. During this process, melatonin serves as the most important hormone. Melatonin receptors had been observed in ileum and colon of rodents, which indicated that intestinal motility and health could be affected by circadian rhythm. However, most researches paid attentions to the effect of photoperiod on reproductive and productive performance, and there were very few reports concerning the effect of photoperiod on intestinal health. Moreover, none of them has been seen in laying ducks. Therefore, more work is needed to evaluate the effect of photoperiod on intestinal morphology, barrier function, short chain fatty acid content and microbial flora, and further explore the optimal photoperiod for intestinal health of laying ducks.